The Surprising Role of Belly Fat in Metabolic Health
Emerging evidence challenges the blanket vilification of “belly fat” by highlighting the distinct metabolic role of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (Ab-SAT). In this episode, Dr. Richard LaFountain and Dr. Aaron Slusher discuss new research showing that, when functioning properly, Ab-SAT serves as a metabolic buffer—absorbing excess lipids, limiting ectopic fat deposition, dampening inflammation, and preserving insulin sensitivity. They outline how specific exercise modalities not only reduce adiposity but remodel Ab-SAT into a more metabolically active tissue, thereby enhancing systemic flexibility and resilience. Understanding these depot-specific adaptations reframes fat-loss strategies: success hinges not merely on quantity lost, but on the functional quality of the remaining adipose tissue. This perspective offers practical insights for mitigating metabolic disease risk and promoting longevity.
2 mins
By: Dr. Aaron L. Slusher, Dr. Richard LaFountain
How Abdominal Subcutaneous Tissue Acts as a Metabolic Buffer
Dr. Richard LaFountain here. In this week’s episode, I had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Aaron Slusher to break down the latest science on something we’ve all been told to fear: belly fat.
But what if some types of belly fat actually help you?
This episode is based on Dr. Slusher’s recent research review, where he explores how abdominal subcutaneous fat (Ab-SAT)—aka the fat just under your skin—can act as a metabolic buffer, protecting you from insulin resistance, enhancing metabolic elasticity, reducing fat spillover, and limiting chronic inflammation.
By the end of this episode, you’ll learn:
How certain fat protects you from insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction
Why exercise doesn’t just burn fat; it transforms it into a more functional tissue
How different types of training influence fat behavior at the cellular level
A smarter way to approach fat loss: not just how much you lose, but how well it works for you
Modern lifestyles can overwhelm our fat-storage systems. When Ab-SAT can’t keep up with storage needs, additional fat is deposited around vital organs—or even within organ tissues like the liver—elevating disease risk and promoting dysfunction. But with the right exercise approach, you can restore the flexibility, function, and protective benefits of your subcutaneous abdominal fat layer.
If you’re serious about metabolic health, this episode is essential.
It provides an important new lens for viewing subcutaneous abdominal fat and offers deeper insight into how various fat depots may influence metabolic health and longevity.
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